Joe O'Toole (Independent)

That is the second element which refers to trade unions of which gardaí cannot be members. The subsection above means the GRA itself must be independent of and cannot be associated with a body or persons outside the Garda Síochána. At the moment, the GRA has full membership of the ICPSA which is not amenable to the provisions of the Bill. I would be happy to hear the Minister tell me that is not the case, but I do not expect he will. It is an issue to be examined.

I do not understand the difference between the various bodies. I was a member of a trade union which is called the Irish National Teachers Organisation rather than the Irish National Teachers' Union. Another well known teaching union is called the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland. I presume the term "trade union" in the Bill refers to a clear definition of "trade union" in other legislation.

I welcome this positive, progressive and creative Bill. It has the potential to restore confidence in the police force. The connections it seeks to make between the Garda and local communities and local authorities is very welcome. I hope the legislation works. We should all try to ensure it does. I was delighted to listen to a positive debate in which Opposition Members complimented the Minister. It is what the House is best at. I have raised a number of issues and I have no doubt the Minister will consider them. If changes need to be made, I look forward to seeing the Minister's amendments.